High voltage electrical distribution equipment comes in many shapes and sizes. Bussed troughs, bussed gutters and step bus gutters offer flexible options for the installation of electrical distribution substations. Custom metal fabrication techniques are used to create bussed gutters and troughs, often to exact specifications.

Typical uses of bussed gutters and troughs

Multi-story construction projects benefit from bussed gutters and troughs, where distribution for multiple loads is required. Other common uses of this type of electrical distribution equipment is for use in retail or tenanted environments where there is a requirement for separate billing metering. The nature and construction of bussed gutters also permit future expansion as the need for more electrical loads arises.

Characteristic of bussed troughs, gutters and step bussed gutters

Bussed gutters and troughs are made out of weather and rust resistant galvanized steel. 12 or 14 gauge thickness steel is commonly used to provide the mechanical strength and resilience to the custom-made equipment. Precision forming and bending equipment is used to make the different configurations, while the the seams and joints are welded.

Other features of bussed troughs and gutters include the following:

• End caps which can be removed to allow for containment expansion.
• Screw on covers with meter seal tabs provided as standard for safety purposes.
• Can be specified with aluminum or silver plated copper buss bars.
• Standard galvanized finish with powder coating in a variety of colors available as an option.

Custom metal fabrication allows for bespoke bussed trough, gutter and step bus gutter to be custom made to meet individual project requirements.

Standards & Compliance

Bussed gutters and troughs should comply with the following electrotechnical and safety standards:

• UL Type 1 – so that they offer protection from physical contact with equipment contained within. The standard also specifies protection against falling dirt.
• UL Type 3R – bussed gutters and troughs can also be specified for external use if they meet this standard and are expected to offer protection against falling rain and ice loading.
• UL 1773 – bussed gutters and trough must meet the requirements of this standards if they are functioning as termination boxes, especially for metering installation.

Benefits of using gutter and troughs

Gutters and troughs are ideal where multiple electrical tap-off points need to be accommodated.They are often installed together with distribution centers, meter centers and switchboards.

Bussed gutters and troughs are also suitable for indoor and outdoor use, making them an essential aspect of any electrical distribution system.